Always construct a written payment contract between you (the pianist) and your collaborator containing the fee amount and when that amount is expected to be compensated.--Michael Yenny, from the wall of the Collaborative Piano Blog Facebook Page
Thanks for this important reminder, Michael. Comments are welcome below. Are there situations where oral agreements are more appropriate, or are written agreements (even in email exchanges) the most reliable method to ensure terms are agreed upon?
Hmmm, that's an interesting thought. As a singer I've never been asked to sign a formal written contract with a pianist,even for a concert or series of concerts, although I wouldn't hesitate do do so if asked. I suppose that it's not a bad idea, however, if working with another musician who you don't know well, or at all.
ReplyDeleteAs a compromise email is a great method for this so that you have a written record of the terms of the arrangement without have to confront the sometimes awkward part of the collaboration (none of us likes talking about money - hat's why we get managers!) head on.
It also gives you something to reference when you can't recall if the rehearsal starts at 12 or 1!